Ohio’s heartland is dotted with small towns that offer not only charm and a sense of community, but also a below-average cost of living that’s perfect for retirees relying solely on Social Security. Here are ten towns where affordable housing, low daily expenses, and quality of life come together—proving you don’t need a big nest egg to enjoy your golden years.
1. Youngstown
Median Home Value: ~$60,200
Median Rent: $950
Cost of Living: 25.6% below the national average
With a revitalized downtown, affordable homes, and plenty of parks and restaurants, Youngstown is excellent for budget-conscious retirees. Healthcare and groceries are also lower in cost, and the city regularly hosts festivals and community events.
2. Niles
Median Home Value: ~$121,600
Median Rent: $835
Cost of Living: 25.2% below the national average
Niles in Trumbull County is a quiet town with plenty of history and low housing costs. The town offers public parks, reliable healthcare access, and a relaxed pace perfect for retirees.
3. Ashtabula
Median Home Value: ~$142,400
Median Rent: $950
Cost of Living: 26.5% below the national average
Set on Lake Erie’s southern shore, Ashtabula boasts scenic views, affordable living, and local wineries. The town’s low housing and daily expenses make it easy to stretch a Social Security check.
4. Steubenville
Median Home Value: ~$123,400
Median Rent: $700
Overlooking the Ohio River, Steubenville offers low property values and a welcoming atmosphere. With more than a quarter less expense than the national average, essentials are well within reach for those on fixed incomes.
5. Marion
Median Home Value: ~$90,100
Population: ~36,837
Marion’s affordable homes and quiet lifestyle, combined with easy access to museums, parks, and the sprawling Marion Popcorn Festival, make it an attractive small-town option.
6. Lima
Median Home Value: ~$137,700
Median Rent: $850
Lima features suburban comforts in a small city setting, including local shops, cultural centers, and numerous city parks—all at a cost nearly 7% lower than the national average.
7. Canton
Median Home Value: ~$161,200
Median Rent: $975
Famous for the NFL Hall of Fame, Canton also offers affordable homes, reasonable rents, and significantly lower transportation and food costs than much of the country.
8. Barnesville
A true small town in Belmont County, Barnesville provides a tight-knit community and various annual festivals, such as the Ohio Pumpkin Festival. Average home prices hover around $180,000—an attainable figure for many retirees.
9. Genoa
Median Home Price: ~$203,400
Average Rent: $650
Genoa’s small-town charm, historic character, and unusually low rent make it a hidden gem for retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle and affordable living.
10. Sandusky
Median Home Value: ~$138,900
Median Rent: $1,263
With a location on Lake Erie, Sandusky offers both relaxing lakeside activities and a cost of living 23% lower than the national average. Its modest home values and access to healthcare make it suitable for those living on Social Security alone.
Why These Towns Stand Out
Cost of Living: Most towns on this list offer housing and daily expenses significantly below both state and national averages, making Social Security stretch further.
Healthcare Access: Even smaller towns provide reliable healthcare facilities, so retirees don’t have to compromise their well-being.
Community: Abundant local events, parks, and shops create community connections and satisfying daily routines.
These ten towns aren’t just affordable; they make retirement genuinely enjoyable—with money left over to savor life’s simple pleasures.
Sources
[1] https://www.houzeo.com/blog/cheapest-places-to-live-in-ohio/
[2] https://www.boomershub.com/blog/the-best-small-towns-to-retire-in-ohio
[3] https://www.rentcafe.com/cost-of-living-calculator/us/oh/
[4] https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/10-best-towns-in-ohio-for-retirees.html
[5] https://financebuzz.com/small-towns-live-on-social-security
